Aloha! We are pleased to know that you are preparing to spend a weekend in Honolulu. In fact, if technology allowed us, we would put a flower necklace around your neck right now.
The capital of Hawaii is magical. Not only because it has one of the best meeting lines between sea and sky, but because the cultural mix that inhabits it enriches it and fills it with energy. Honolulu is exotic, jungle-like, pure, and arguably very attractive. If it were a woman, she would have dark skin, long hair, and her eyes stretched as if she were always smiling. She would wear, just as the natives do, floral skirts, flower crowns, and precious necklaces. That’s the city that saw the birth of former President Barack Obama in 1961; a jewel.
Since your trip will be short, we have prepared this guide so that you can fully enjoy its charms. But first, we will start by giving you the first piece of advice: you have to arrive in Honolulu at night. The answer to that statement is simple: doing so will give you the gift of discovering it fully the next day; that is, if you arrive when the darkness hides its landscapes, you will limit yourself to listening to it, smelling it, and perceiving it especially. The waves of the sea will accompany your way to the hotel, usually on little-traveled roads. You will hear the breeze in the leaves of its trees and you will let yourself be captivated by its mystery. Believe us! It’s a bet to win. The next day, just as you wake up, look out the window of your room. You’ll see how you run out of breath.
Day 1. Friday Night
Fact number one: No, at the airport, you will not be greeted with the famous flower necklaces. Fact number two: it is very likely that the hotel will, if you have opted for a luxury option. You will spend the first night at The Kahala Resort, primarily because this complex offers you an experience away from the city noise and brings you closer to nature. When we say nature, we mean peace, tranquility, and connection with the environment.
The Kahala is a favorite of celebrities; almost all presidents of the United States have stayed there (except Donald Trump, who has his own complex on the island). Queen Elizabeth II also stayed there and has once said she was amazed by the destination.
Please, visit the sea at night. You will see that feeling like the luckiest person in the world is possible. Have a cocktail, enjoy the opportunity, and be grateful.
Day 2. Saturday to Explore Honolulu
Tick-tock, tick-tock. Wake up early, because a weekend trip is definitely not for sleeping many hours. Take advantage of every minute in Hawaii! Have a good breakfast, because the day will be promising.
The first thing is to go down to the beach of the Kahala Resort and when you do, you will be surprised to see the dolphins swimming very close to you. We told you: natural magic in its purest state! As the hotel is located only 8 minutes by car from Diamond Head State Monument, one of the most visited places by tourists, we recommend visiting it. The entrance has a value of only 1 dollar. Of course, try to arrive early. It has a large influx of people and the number one rule of this trip is not to waste time.
There, you will make a 1-kilometer tour to the crater of the island of Oahu. This was formed about 300,000 years ago during an eruption. Once at the place, you will find yourself in front of 74 steps, whose challenge will invite you to have a 360 ° view of the place. The US government used to use this place as an observatory to prevent possible military attacks.
After this walk, get ready to visit Waikiki. For lunch, the recommendation is Duke’s restaurant. They have one of the best fish tacos on the island. It is usually crowded if you go during rush hour.
The next destination is the emblematic Pearl Harbor, the military base that was attacked by the Japanese army in 1951, during World War II, and that subsequently involved the launch of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It is an exciting visit to the past, while impressing and moving you.
You have to experience the sunset at the Waikiki Sky Bar, located on top of a skyscraper.
Day 3. Sunday, Rest Before Returning to Routine
In Waikiki, there are an infinite number of good options for breakfast. Once again, eat well because the walk will demand energy. The first stop will be at Manoa Falls, a jungle-like, pure, and charming place that will connect you with a love for nature. Once there, you will have to make a simple tour, which will take approximately an hour to reach the waterfalls.
As a curious fact, we note that the movie “The Hunger Games” was filmed there. By the way, it may suddenly rain and a rainbow is drawn between the earth and the sky. The tropical climate of Hawaii often surprises us in this way.
After this, do not hesitate to rent a car and explore the North Shore, one of the most beautiful places on the island. We recommend hiking through Ka’ena Point.
The moment you were waiting for has arrived. Lie down to sunbathe on Lanikai Beach, one of the most famous in Oahu. Later, and as a relaxation process, treat yourself to a stop at Alan Wong’s restaurant and try the coconut sorbet.
Before going to the airport, have a luau dinner, which, in addition to a typical meal from the place, offers a traditional fire show.
We hope you have the best weekend possible. And mahalo for you, or what is equal to blessings in Hawaiian.
Recommended Hotels
Wake up every morning with unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head from your private suite at Aston Waikiki Beach Tower. Enjoy the freedom of a fully equipped kitchen and relax by the pool or on the beach, just steps away.
Immerse yourself in the elegance of Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani, a boutique hotel in the heart of Waikiki. Its contemporary design with Hawaiian touches creates a serene and welcoming atmosphere. Cool off in the infinity pool, delight in the local cuisine, and revitalize in the spa.
Experience the unparalleled luxury of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel. Its spacious suites with gourmet kitchens and private balconies offer you a space of comfort and sophistication. Enjoy the infinity pools, world-class restaurants, and personalized service that define the Ritz-Carlton experience.
Connect with the essence of Hawaii at Ka Laʻi Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts, an oceanfront hotel. Its rooms, decorated with inspiration from nature and local culture, invite you to relaxation and authenticity. Savor the local cuisine in its restaurants and explore the wonders of the island with the experiences offered by the hotel.
